Pastel
Pastel is a common dish at Pastelaria Ebenezer. Based on general online reviews, this type of food is the most popular.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Pastelaria Ebenezer
Pastel's origins are somewhat debated, but it's widely believed that it was influenced by Asian immigrants, primarily Japanese and Chinese, who adapted wontons and egg rolls to local Brazilian ingredients in the early to mid-20th century. To avoid discrimination and to better integrate, these immigrants sold their creations under the guise of Brazilian cuisine, thus creating a new and popular dish.
Pastel is deeply ingrained in Brazilian culture, especially as a popular street food and market snack, reflecting the country’s diverse culinary influences.
Street Food Staple
Pastel is a ubiquitous sight at feiras (street markets) throughout Brazil. Vendors often fry them fresh on the spot, creating a vibrant and social atmosphere.
Family Tradition
Making pastel can be a family affair, with different generations contributing to the preparation of the dough, fillings, and final frying process.
Regional Variations
While the basic concept remains the same, pastel fillings and seasonings can vary significantly from region to region, reflecting local tastes and available ingredients.
Pastel offers a delightful combination of savory fillings encased in a crispy, flaky crust. The flavor profile is determined largely by the filling, but the texture contrast is a key element.
The crust, made from a simple dough of flour, water, and sometimes a touch of cachaça or vinegar for extra crispness, is deep-fried to a golden brown, resulting in a bubbly, crunchy exterior. Common fillings include ground beef (carne), cheese (queijo), heart of palm (palmito), chicken (frango), shrimp (camarão), and pizza (presunto, queijo, tomate, orégano) each contributing unique savory and sometimes salty notes. A squeeze of lime or a drizzle of hot sauce can enhance the flavor further.
Eat it Fresh
Pastel is best enjoyed immediately after frying when the crust is at its crispiest and the filling is still hot.
Choose Your Filling Wisely
Experiment with different fillings to find your favorite. Don't be afraid to try local specialties or ask for recommendations from the vendor.
Condiments
Many people enjoy pastel with a squeeze of lime, a drizzle of hot sauce (molho de pimenta), or a sprinkle of queijo ralado (grated Parmesan cheese).
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